Taliban’s new media rules will deepen fear and self-censorship, warns UNAMA

Taliban’s new media rules will deepen fear and self-censorship, warns UNAMA
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The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has voiced serious concerns about new media restrictions introduced by the Taliban, warning that these rules will further limit press freedom and increase self-censorship among journalists, Amu TV reported. According to UNAMA, the recent directive formalizes existing limitations on political content in Afghan media and marks a significant tightening of control over public discourse.

Issued by the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture, the directive bans political debate and critical analysis on television and radio. Media outlets must now obtain prior approval for topics, guests, and viewpoints before broadcasting any political content.

The regulation, titled “Policy on the Management of Political Programs in Afghanistan,” requires all print, broadcast, and digital media to submit daily lists of planned topics and proposed guests to a government oversight committee. Even commentators who were previously approved must seek new clearance for each appearance.

Additionally, political analysts must possess an identification card issued by the Taliban’s Directorate of Publications and are barred from expressing opinions that contradict official policies. They are also required to show loyalty to what the Taliban define as “national and Islamic values.”

The Taliban defend these restrictions as measures to “preserve Islamic principles, strengthen national unity, and prevent sectarian or ethnic divisions.” The directive also states its goal is to encourage “fact-based reporting” and reduce “propaganda.”